The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency and Highways England are pleased to announce the launch of Ridefree.

The news that the government has eased lockdown restrictions means changes are coming on our journey back to normality. Soon you’ll be able to get your hair cut and enjoy socialising with your friends. And some of you will be able to drive into work every day. Oh, that last one doesn’t sound quite so good does it? Still, as my old dad used to say, work comes to us all and we just have to get on with it.

I’ve got a bit of a shocking statistic for you. Did you know that around two thirds of road deaths happen on country roads? That’s more than urban roads and motorways combined. What’s going on here?

OK, let me ask a quick question. How many of you have driven at night? If you’re a learner driver, I wouldn’t expect a huge response. If you’re a recently qualified driver, I wouldn’t expect a huge response. If you’re an experienced driver…what are you doing here!? No, seriously, stick around – we’ve got plenty of great advice for you too.

At the age of 51 I decided to take my bike test in early spring this year. Through the team at RMT I progressed through really enjoyable and high-quality training that allowed me to get my full license in June.